Mausoleum Costs
A mausoleum, a building that holds both casketed and cremated remains above ground, is one burial option for loved ones. The costs of a mausoleum may vary based on several factors.
How Much Does a Mausoleum Cost?
To understand mausoleum costs, a family must first decide if they would like a burial or cremation. This decision will determine the need for a crypt or a niche. Crypts hold casketed remains and niches hold cremated remains in urns in a mausoleum. At a public mausoleum, the cost of a standard niche may range from $750 to $2,800, and the cost for a crypt may vary from $4,000 to $8000. Families also have the option of private mausoleums; this cost may be upwards of $25,000 as it includes the cost of the structure itself, in addition to the space.
Types of Mausoleums
There are three primary types of mausoleums, large public or community mausoleums, smaller standalone mausoleums, and private, often family-owned, mausoleums. Costs are impacted by the type of mausoleum as well as whether a family or individual selects a crypt or a niche.
Large public or community mausoleums house many niches and crypts and often include spaces for families to sit and visit. Smaller stand-alone mausoleums, public or private, may be built in cemeteries and house multiple crypts or niches inside a stately structure, often made of granite or marble. Private mausoleums are often owned and occupied by a single family and are accessible only to family members.
Public and Community Mausoleums
In the United States, the average cost of entombment in a single crypt, or burial space, in a public indoor mausoleum is between $7,000 and $8,000. This cost is similar to the average cost of a burial plot and grave marker. A typical 9-inch cremation niche costs between $750 and $2,800.
Stand-Alone Mausoleums
A crypt in a garden mausoleum may be less expensive than one in a large indoor mausoleum. The average cost of entombment in a single crypt, or burial space, in a public outdoor or garden mausoleum is between $4,000 and $5,000, similar to the average cost of a burial plot and grave marker.
Private Mausoleums
A private, family-owned mausoleum tends to be a more premium structure. The uniquely designed tributes are often considered works of art and may cost more upwards of $25,000 for construction and use.
Other Factors that Impact Mausoleum Costs
Families may encounter additional costs when entombing a loved one in a mausoleum. Some common fees include:
- Entombment Fees - Some locations may charge for the opening and resealing of a crypt
- Location - Crypts and niches located on a lower level for more easily accessible viewing traditionally cost more than those on a higher level
- Pre-Need vs. At-Need - Costs tend to increase when purchased at need. Purchasing cemetery property in advance helps lock in costs.
Resources
Types of Burial Practices
What is Pre-Planning
Glossary of Cemetery Terms